Interviewing for a Job Preparing for the interview During the Interview After the Interview

Preparing for the Interview Preparing for a job interview ahead of time will increase your chances of getting the job!

Learn about the employer Find out something about the employer. What do they make? What services do they provide? Research their Web site or request a brochure. On your interview, they may ask what you know about their company. This could also help you learn more about whether or not it is a good place to work.

Dress Professionally Make sure that your clothing is neat and presentable. Wear a minimal amount of jewelry and make-up. Style hair conservatively. Go easy on the perfume or cologne.

Arrive Early Never be late for a job interview - It makes a bad impression. Know the exact location of the interview. If you are not very familiar with the location, it is a good idea to check it out ahead of time to make sure you know where you are going. Upon arrival, give your name to the receptionist.

Allow time for the interview Be patient when waiting for your interview Your interview may start late or run longer than expected. Remain calm, be polite, and wait quietly. Do not tell the employer that you have to go to another appointment. Make sure that your schedule is open.

PRACTICE! PRACTICE! PRACTICE! Rehearse with a friend or family member. Rehearse in front of a mirror. Prepare answers to commonly asked questions.

What To Bring To An Interview A nice pen, note pad, and calculator Prepared questions to ask the employer Money – in case you need to pay for lunch or parking A positive attitude!! Copies of your résumé and/or portfolio Copy of references Proper documents: Driver’s license or photo ID Social security card An application if received beforehand

Your ability to project a positive impression is essential. During the Interview Your ability to project a positive impression is essential.

Attitude Be courteous Act professional Don't interrupt the interviewer Avoid giggling or laughing loudly Show enthusiasm Be yourself!

Body Language Offer a firm handshake Use eye contact Sit straight in chair - don't lean back or fold arms Control nervous habits (tapping feet, clicking pen) Respond by smiling or nodding your head - this shows interest

Speaking for Success Know the interviewer's name and how to pronounce it. Don’t speak too quickly. Don't use slang - watch your grammar. Don't use inappropriate language or make inappropriate jokes. Never insult a former employer, coworker, or teacher. Be sure to thank the interviewer before you leave.

Listening Skills Resist distractions - stay focused Do not interrupt Avoid making hasty conclusions Keep an open mind Ask questions to clarify or expand information Focus on the entire message, not just one part

Interview Questions Tell me about yourself. What are your strengths? This question is meant for you to talk about your skills and abilities to do the job. What are your strengths? Tell the employer about what you do best and the positive work values that you’ll bring to the job. What are your weaknesses? Give the employer something that is not really a weakness. (Example - "I’m a perfectionist”)

Interview Questions (continued) Why do you want to work here? Give the employer reasons why you chose to apply for the job. (Example - The job fits your skills and you know that you can make a significant contribution to the company.) What is your greatest accomplishment? This can be a school-related achievements or something outside of school in your personal life. Why should I hire you? Talk about your skills and achievements. ?

Questions To Ask Employers What are the responsibilities of this job? What are the employee benefits? Is there potential for advancement? How will I be trained for the job? How often is performance reviewed in this position? To whom would I report? What is the work environment like?

After the Interview Your actions after an interview can have a significant impact on how you are perceived by a potential employer.

Tying up Loose Ends Two common mistakes after job interviews are: Neglecting to send a thank-you note, and Not checking in or checking in too frequently with the interviewer.

Send a Thank You Note The purpose of a thank you note is to: Show appreciation for the employer's interest in you Remind them of your interest in the job Review your qualifications for the position. Send the letter by regular mail within 24 hours after your interview. You might also send a thank you note to anyone who helped you with the interview. You might choose instead to send a thank you email.

Call Back! If you do not hear back within a few weeks it is a good idea to call the employer over the phone. Rehearse what you will say before you call. Remain polite throughout the conversation. If you are rejected, politely ask why and then thank the interviewer for his/her time.